Youth Villages wraps up 2026 financial literacy cohort

Jul 10, 2026 | Uncategorized

Since 2023, Youth Villages in Oregon has helped young people build critical financial skills and stability as they prepare for adulthood through its Financial Literacy initiative. This year’s funding from the Marcia H. Randall Foundation and OnPoint Community Credit Union supported stipends for young adults who participated in financial workshops and a savings match for Portland-area program recipients.

Youth ages 14–17 who have experienced foster care and are enrolled in Youth Villages’ programs were also able to open a Youth Savers Account, an OnPoint Community Credit Union product, without an adult co-signer. First Tech Federal Credit Union, iQ Credit Union and Columbia Bank also expanded access to banking services, removing a major barrier for young people preparing to exit foster care.

Too many young people who leave foster care carry financial burdens they didn’t create, like damaged credit from accounts opened in their names or a lack of basic money-management skills

- Andrew Grover

“Too many young people who leave foster care carry financial burdens they didn’t create, like damaged credit from accounts opened in their names or a lack of basic money-management skills,” said Andrew Grover, executive director of Youth Villages Oregon. “Without financial literacy and clean credit, securing an apartment or opening an account becomes a major obstacle.”

The need for programs like this remains critical.

According to The Annie E. Casey Foundation, among young people who have aged out of foster care, only 21% have their own bank account, and just 17% have $1,000 in savings.

This year’s outcomes demonstrate what’s possible with the right support. In 2026, 117 young people participated in the program, attending one or more skill-building sessions, and 93 received a savings account match for a grand total of more than $91,000. Through a partnership with Financial Beginnings, participants completed workshops on budgeting and financial protection, led by OnPoint Community Credit Union, and gained practical tools they can use immediately.

One participant developed the financial skills to launch a small business and secure housing. Another, still in high school, saved for a first vehicle while finding stable employment.

We are so thankful for all our community partners who are changing outcomes for young people! If you’d like to make an impact on youth in Oregon, please email Shauna Lugar at Shauna.Lugar@youthvillages.org.